What to Expect When You Need a Tooth Extraction

January 13, 2017

They are the two words that almost every person entering the dentist’s office dreads hearing—tooth extraction. In reality, there is very little to fear!

They are the two words that almost every person entering the dentist’s office dreads hearing—tooth extraction. However, in reality, there is very little to fear! Tooth extractions are painless procedures that are only recommended when absolutely necessary for your oral and overall health. What should you expect when you need a tooth extraction?

Why is a Tooth Extraction Recommended?

Tooth extractions are only recommended when they are the best possible option for your oral and overall health. The most common reasons for a tooth extraction include:

If your tooth is very badly damaged from trauma or decay and there is not a feasible way to save it

An overcrowded mouth that needs to be prepared for orthodontic treatment

A tooth that cannot break through your gum line because there isn’t enough room in your mouth for it

Infection that extended to the pulp of the tooth that cannot be cured by root canal therapy

If you have a high risk of infection in a tooth and are immunocompromised

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction?

Dentists and oral surgeons are incredibly experienced when it comes to tooth extractions. You should expect some version of the following to happen when you go in for your tooth extraction procedure:

Your dentist will use a local anesthetic or general anesthetic to numb the area or allow you to sleep during the procedure.

If your tooth is impacted, your dentist will cut away the gum and bone tissue blocking the tooth and then use a pair of forceps to loosen the tooth.

Once the tooth is pulled out, a blood clot will form in the socket. Depending on the extraction, your dentist might put self-dissolving stitches in your gum to keep them closed.

Ready for a Painless Tooth Extraction?

Whether you need a tooth extraction or just want to get a dental health check-up, Annapolis Dental Center has the expertise and compassion to work with you to improve your oral health and get you smiling again. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy with the services that they receive. To set up your appointment today, give us a call at (410) 571-5014 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and the whole family, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and check us out on Yelp!